Wrongful Death Lawsuit

When the death of a person takes place due to the negligence of another person, the death is known as wrongful death. The claims made by the relatives of the deceased person are known as wrongful death claims.

The death may result from a road accident, mistake made by a health care professional, error made by a manufacturer in producing a product and injuries occurred due to faulty equipment at the workplace. As per the law, a family member of the deceased person can file a wrongful death lawsuit against the person responsible for the death.

Why to file a civil claim?

Many people file a civil wrongful death lawsuit to recover financial losses that have resulted after a loved ones death. It is important to pursue a compensation claim for wrongful death to bring financial support and security to the victim’s family. 

Compensation

The compensation awarded by the courts includes the medical cost incurred when the person was injured, loss of income from the accident until death, pension, bereavement damages, dependency awards and funeral costs. If a dependency award is sought it can include the wages that the deceased would have earned during his/her lifespan until retirement and finally death. The court can also make an award for the household costs such as DIY and childcare costs.

In order to obtain compensation, you need to prove before the court that the victim died due to the misconduct of the other person. You must also establish that you are a dependant of the victim and after his/her death you are suffering financially. If the deceased was the only member earning in the house, the claim can be worth a substantial amount of money. The dependents can include spouse, civil partners, children, parents and siblings.

The time period for pursuing a wrongful death lawsuit is 3 years from the date of death. If you miss the time period the court will not allow you to pursue a compensation claim. It is important to bring a claim in good time, as it is easier to gather evidences immediately following an accident. Excalibur Solicitors can help family members in wrongful death compensation cases. We can assist you in claiming the compensation you are entitled to.